`Get Your Goat' Comes From Racing Lingo

Answer Desk

Q: Where does the expression "get your goat" come from? If I allow someone to upset me, how did I let him "get my goat?" - G.R., Smithfield

A: The expression meaning "to become fretful or irritated because of the actions of another" - comes from the racetracks of an earlier generation, according to the "Dictionary of Word & Phrase Origins."

It used to be common practice to stable a goat with a thoroughbred, the theory being the goat's presence would help keep the high-strung horse calm.

Of course, that led to occasional theft of the goat the night before a race in hopes the horse would lose its poise and blow the race.